Buyers Happiest In Years

April 26, 1994

Consumer confidence in the economy jumped in April to the highest level in nearly four years, buoyed by optimism about business conditions and job opportunities.

The Conference Board, a New York-based research group, issued its widely followed survey Tuesday. Its index of consumer confidence rose 5 points in April to 91.7, up 24 points from the same month a year ago.

The index, calculated from a base of 100, is at the highest level since a 101.7 reading in July 1990.

"Consumer confidence readings continue to be optimistic, running at levels which have historically signaled a strong economy," said Fabian Linden, director of the group's consumer research unit.

Substantially fewer respondents than a month ago said jobs are hard to find.

Fewer said they believe business conditions will worsen in the next six months.

Buying plans were mixed. Home-buying intentions fell, likely reflecting a rise in interest rates over the last few months.